RF MICRONEEDLING VS TRADITIONAL MICRONEEDLING
Traditional Microneedling
Traditional microneedling uses a special device that creates micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating the body’s own healing response. Collagen and elastin production are initiated, which effectively tightens skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and acne scarring. In some cases, microneedling may include the infusion of platelet rich plasma (PRP) into the created holes, allowing for deeper penetration of nutrients and growth factors for more effective results.
RF Microneedling
RF microneedling adds the element of radiofrequency energy to the traditional microneedling procedure. The RF energy is delivered via small needles. In addition to the benefits seen with the micro-injury provided by the microneedles, RF microneedling also delivers RF energy deep into the dermis further enhancing skin tightening and scar reduction. The RF energy heats the underlying layers, causing constriction and tightening of the skin, as well as the stimulation of collagen and elastin production. Because the RF energy is delivered so deeply, it can produce faster, more dramatic results.
Who is it for?
RF microneedling is appropriate for nearly any skin type and tone. The procedure addresses the following issues:
- Fine lines and facial wrinkles
- Scarring from acne and chicken pox
- Stretch marks and improving scars
- Mild to moderate skin laxity in face and neck
- Irregular skin texture and tone
Most patients will achieve great results with 2-3 treatment sessions, spaced about 6 to 8 weeks apart. For moderate to severe needs, 6 treatments will provide excellent results. The number of treatments will depend on how well the patient responds to the treatment and the severity of the skin issues to be addressed. Once the desired improvement is attained, a treatment every 3 to 5 months will help to maintain the overall look and regenerate more collagen and elastin with aging.
Benefits of RF Microneedling
RF microneedling can offer similar results to ablative laser procedures, but with significantly less discomfort and downtime. Topical anesthetic is applied prior to treatment to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. Treatment usually takes 1 hour, depending on the size of the treatment area.
Skin is typically red for the first day or two after treatment, but the redness is typically mild and much less than is often seen with laser procedures. There is little or no discomfort after the procedure and patients typically are able to return to regular activities within a day. Makeup can be applied 24 hours after the procedure to mask any residual redness.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?
The FDA Defines 2 Types of Micro-needling: Medical Grade Microneedling and Cosmetic Grade Microneedling.
Medical Micro-needling (any needle length greater than 0.5 mm)
Medical micro-needling is done in a doctor's office and goes deeper than cosmetic needling. It is done at a depth of greater than 1 mm to 3 mm and can only be done by a medical nurse, a Nurse Practitioner, a PA or a physician.
Treatment at a doctor's office with a medical-grade device costs $300 to $1,000 depending on surface treatment area size, products and packages. During the procedure, there may be pinpoint bleeding. Afterward, the skin looks red and slightly puffy.
Unlike laser resurfacing, an older procedure where healing can take a week or more, medical micro-needling offers a quick recovery. Down time is usually about one day.
Traditional Microneedling with the Procell Microchanneling System
With all Microneediling, even Radiofrequency, multiple treatments are necessary. The number of needling sessions depends on the skin condition being treated. Three or four treatments are recommended for mild to moderate acne scarring, whereas deeper scars and stretch marks will require six treatments. 4 to 6 weeks between treatments is recommended with maintenance treatments at intervals of 6 to 12 months.
“Microneedling is a safe, chemical-free method that triggers new collagen production,” says Beverly Hills, Nurse and Aesthetic Trainer, Sylvia Silvestri, RN. “Because it can be performed on all skin colors and types, it is sometimes the preferred treatment over laser as there is no risk of burning the patient.”
How Does ProCell Therapy Work?
The ProCell MicroNeedling Pen creates invisible micro-perforations in the skin to stimulate cells known as keratinocytes to increase production of new collagen and elastin. Human stem cells penetrate the channels created by the micro needling to enhance the production of healthy new skin.
ProCell Therapies brings together professional MicroNeedling technology and human stem cell science for an exciting new approach to skin rejuvenation! This breakthrough treatment (also referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy) achieves amazing results and improves the appearance of:
- Skin texture and firmness
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Crepey skin around eyes
- Reduction in scars
- Pore size
- Stretch marks
- Scars from acne, stretch marks, injury and surgical procedureS.
- Sun damage and discoloration
Microneedling can be done on areas of skin that may not be suitable for peeling or laser resurfacing, such as around the eyes and mouth, hands, and chest. The procedure is well tolerated by patients with minimal downtime, and can be easily personalized by going deeper on some areas where skin damage requires a more aggressive approach.
The total procedure including numbing usually takes about an hour. Makeup shouldn’t be applied for 24-48 hours post procedure.
Usually, multiple treatments will be necessary for the best results. The number of needling sessions depends on the individual’s skin condition. Three or four treatments may be recommended for mild to moderate acne scarring, whereas deeper scars and stretch marks may require upward of five treatments. An interval of 4 to 6 weeks between treatments is typically recommended. Maintenance treatments at intervals of 6 to 12 months.
